subject: How to clean a portable air conditioner [print this page] How to clean a portable air conditioner How to clean a portable air conditioner
If you rent, or live in a small studio apartment or condo, you probably know the benefits of a portable air conditioner. These handy moveable units can heat or cool your place without using a lot of excess energy, and they're more practical and affordable than split-system or ducted air conditioners.
But after awhile, you may notice your portable air conditioner becoming sluggish and louder than usual. This is because, over time, particles and sludge build up in the filter, making the unit less efficient. If you've never cleaned your filter since you set up your unit, it's probably time you gave your portable air conditioner a clean.
Cleaning and maintaining your portable air conditioner increases its lifespan and ensures it continually functions with maximum efficiency. If you think it's time you cleaned your portable air conditioner, follow these simple steps:
Disconnect the power supply and turn the unit off. You should always do this before opening and cleaning any electrical appliance.
First, using a warm, damp cloth and a little household detergent, wipe down all the surfaces of the portable air conditioner. Make sure the detergent is mild and not abrasive, or you'll damage your unit.
Next, remove the outlet grille and lift out the filter. It should be easy to remove the filter, as you're meant to remove it often to clean it.
Use your vacuum cleaner (remove the floor cleaning nozzle) to clean the dust away from the inside of the filter.
Rinse the filter with detergent and warm water and dry thoroughly before replacing it in your portable air conditioner.
If you regularly use your portable air conditioner, you should be cleaning your filter once a month. During summer, when the air is filled with particulates, you should clean it even more often.
If the unit contains a fan, you might find this also get dirty. Wipe it down with a warm, damp cloth and mild determent.
Regular cleaning and service of your portable air conditioner unit and filter will help prevent the build-up of particulates, which make your unit work less efficiently and can shorten it's lifespan.
Want to know more about portable air conditioners and underfloor heating? Visit the Air Con Centre.
